The 1,990-acre Cameron State Forest includes Cameron Pond, two smaller ponds, a gas pipeline down the middle and a native grassland field near the southern end. Today, Cameron and all state forests in New York are managed for multiple benefits to serve the needs of the people of New York. Sustainable management practices will ensure a perpetual supply of timber, a diversity of wildlife habitats, compatible recreational opportunities and clean water.

General information on hiking includes how-to and safety tips and links to rules & regulations. Cameron State Forest does not have any designated hiking trails, however there are numerous animal trails, old roads and pipelines to explore. None of these are currently marked and few are mapped.

General information on cross-country skiing and snowshoeing includes how-to and safety tips and links to rules & regulations. Cameron State Forest does not include any designated skiing or snowshoe trails, however there are numerous animal trails, old roads and pipelines to explore. None of these are currently marked and few are mapped.

General information on primitive camping includes how-to and safety tips and links to rules & regulations. At-large primitive camping is allowed in this unit, except within 150 feet of any road, trail, spring, stream, pond, other body of water, or otherwise prohibited.

Wildlife

General information on animals includes links to information about birds, mammals, fish, reptiles, amphibians and insects that inhabit or migrate through the state. Although there are no facilities developed for viewing wildlife, like many places in the Southern Tier you are likely to see wildlife on this land. New York's Southern Tier encompasses a wide variety of habitats and landscapes made up of mountainous hills, forests, grasslands and wetlands. Everything from black bear to black-throated blue warblers and brook trout to wild turkey call the Southern Tier home. The grasslands are home to a variety of bird species including northern harrier and state endangered Henslow's sparrow. White-tailed deer and fisher thrive in the forested hills, while beaver and mink flourish in the wetlands. Outdoorsmen and women from across New York State flock to this area year round for its exquisite wildlife watching and unbeatable hunting.

General information on accessible recreation includes links to other locations with accessible recreation opportunities and information on permits for motorized access. Individuals with qualifying disabilities may apply for a permit to operate a motor vehicle on trails designated by the NYS DEC. This program is known as the Motorized Access Program for People with Disabilities (MAPPWD). Access to Cameron Pond, two beaver ponds, and to a field and views of the Canisteo River Valley are all designated MAPPWD on Cameron State Forest.

To gain access to this state forest, from Bath, take County Route #10 heading south. To gain access to this forest from Addison, travel west on County Route 119, make a right turn (north) onto County Route #10. The state forest can be accessed by turning to the west on either Stone House Road or West Cameron Road. Cameron Pond is located off of West Cameron Rd, with room for about 6 cars. (42.242250°N, 77.403538°W) Google Maps (Leaves DEC website)

Rules, Regulations and Outdoor Safety

Practice Leave No Trace principles (Leaves DEC website) when recreating on state land to enjoy the outdoors responsibly, minimize impact on the natural resources and avoid conflicts with other users.

Gas, food and other supplies may be found in the nearby communities of Cameron Mills, Bath or Addison

Dining opportunities can be found in the nearby communities of Bath or Addison

Lodging may be found in the nearby community of Bath.

Numerous guide books and maps are available with information on the lands, waters, trails and other recreational facilities in this area. These can be purchased at most outdoor equipment retailers, bookstores, and on-line booksellers.

Additional information, outdoor equipment, trip suggestions and guided or self-guided tours may be obtained from outdoor guide and outfitting businesses. Check area chambers of commerce, telephone directories or search the internet for listings.

Consider hiring an outdoor guide if you have little experience or woodland skills. See the NYS Outdoor Guides Association (leaves DEC website) for information on outdoor guides.